Vietnam: Agreement Between US and Vietnam Signed

Today the agreement between the United States and Vietnam concerning intercountry adoptions was signed. The momentous event took place at the Department of State in the Delegates Lounge and was well attended by government officials, NGOs and families. Minister Uong signed for Vietnam and Maura Harty signed for the United States.

After brief remarks by Assistant Secretary Maura Harty and Minister Uong from Vietnam, Congressman Delahunt (D-MA) made a few remarks. Then the signing occurred marking the beginning of a new relationship and agreement between our two countries and hope for many orphaned children.
According to the State Department’s website:

This has been an effort of many months and reflects both countries’ commitment to the welfare and well being of children and parents, as well as to a transparent and effective adoption system between our two countries. The features of the agreement include:

The Parties support the facilitation of the adoption of orphaned children on humanitarian grounds and for the purpose of child protection.

The agreement that appropriate measures should be taken under respective national laws to prevent and deal with actions of adoption abuse invulving the exploitation of children and other infringements on a child’s lawful rights and interests.

Recognition of the respective national laws governing the licensing and oversight of adoption service providers.

The United States welcomes indications from the Government of Vietnam that it intends to accede to the Hague Convention on Intercountry Adoption. The United States supports the goals and principles of this Convention, which calls for transparency in a country’s adoption system and safeguards to protect vulnerable children.